The Lotus Mahal at Hampi is a wonderful combination of Hindu and Islamic architecture. After seeing a number of profusely decorated Hindu temples in Hampi, the restraint and minimalism of Islamic architecture can be quite a relief. The Lotus Mahal delicately balances the two. The roof of the building is clearly derived from Hindu temple architecture. The arches on the other hand are Islamic. However, the intense decoration around the arches is Islamic in form, but Hindu in spirit. Most of the walls are plain, indirectly leading our eyes to the arches of the doorways and windows. I also like the balance of openness on the ground floor which contrasts with the closeted feel of the first.
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